Patterns of immunotherapy use and management of toxicities in regional and tertiary settings

The introduction of the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) immune checkpoint inhibitors and their subsequent listing on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme for use in metastatic melanomas, renal cell carcinomas and non-small-cell lung cancers has resulted in routine use of these agents in oncology practices, including in regional areas. Although immunotherapeutic agents generally have a favourable toxicity profile compared to chemotherapy, they can provoke immune-related adverse effects (irAE) caused by an unregulated and hyperstimulated immune response. Some of these effects can be serious and life-threatening.

To compare the utilisation of immunotherapy and the rates, management and outcomes of irAE between a regional oncology service and a tertiary service.

We reviewed the medical records for all patients treated with immunotherapy in the participating services for the 5-year period from 31 July 2012 to 31 July 2017.

Data demonstrated that rates of immunotherapy use are both similar and increasing across the tertiary and regional services. The rates, types and severity of irAE are equivalent and in concordance with pre-existing literature. Immune-related adverse events appear to be identified and treated earlier in the regional service with the corresponding reduction in the duration of immunosuppression and requirement for inpatient management.

The use of immunotherapy in a regional setting is safe and equivalent to that of a tertiary centre.